Whale Watching was rejuvenating

The sky was crystal clear, the ocean swells between 4 - 6 feet. I took Dramamine, which helped insure I didn't get sick.

Saw Gray Whales. Large lumbering creatures with, it seems, all the time in the world. Saw pods of dolphins as well. They are playful, fun creatures.

I was completely removed from my normal world. I loved it! When I got back on shore, I felt so good. When I got home, I felt like I was walking into a new place. This is the kind of experience I need to have more often. This is what I look for in a vacation or an event - the kind of feeling when I'm at peace with myself and the world. It doesn't last long but it leaves a huge impression on me. My imagination perks up and I just feel generally better.

No depression that day.

Working Dryer

It's the little things that make life a bit better. I just got my clothes dryer fixed. It's been broken for a year and a half now and I haven't had the funds to get it repaired. Now I got it done. I can't believe I can get so excited about a dryer. But I am! I didn't realize how the dryer made all my wash so soft. I've been air drying my towels and they dry stiff as if they're going into rigor mortis! Probably all the hard water in San Diego.

This weekend should be fun. I'm volunteering at another place - this one for kids with disabilities - therapeutic horseback riding. I WON'T be doing any riding but I will be beside the horse with the kids on them. Thought that would be cool. No chance of being thrown off if I'm not on the horse.

Sunday I'm going whale watching with a friend. It's this time of year when the humpback whales make their way down from Alaska towards the equator and pass California on their way. Hope I see some. If not, I hear porpoises are prevalent this time of year too. Any marine mammal other than a seal or sea lion as I can see those laying on the beach or a buoy any time.

I've been doing more activity lately than I have in a very long time. It's starting to pay off. I think my mind is a bit more active and clearer. Won't be able to tell for sure as I'm still doing stupid things at times. Maybe I've just got the "numb-nut" gene.

Made it!

Got through the holidays! I decided to do some different activities during the Xmas break so I volunteered at a food bank and a place called "Friends of Cats". Seriously, my job at "Friends of Cats" was to sit with the cats and pet and play with them. How cool was that? So many adoptable kitties that just want some attention. It was really neat.

I also went horseback riding last Friday. I've done it before but I am by no means an expert. However, I did feel pretty comfortable on horseback - that is until the guide horse spooked at something and took off. My ride subsequently wheeled around and starting running like a banshee was chasing him. I have no idea how to ride a four legged animal that is traveling at 20 mph. The saddle slipped toward the left and I realized I was going to fall off. I let go the reins and relaxed my body as best as I could and just let myself go - hoping my foot didn't get caught in the stirrup (it didn't).

I was wearing a helmet, which came in real handy when I impacted with the ground. My head hit so hard that, even through the helmet, I got knocked dizzy and saw stars. I can't even begin to imagine what it would have been like without the helmet. I'm a firm believer now folks. Wear those helmets! They come in handy when you least expect it!

What I find interesting about this accident is that the potential seriousness of what it could have been. I don't know about other people but when I get depressed, there are times I just want to disappear. Become extinct. Fade away. I don't want to be in existence any more. This accident made me realize that I still do want to live.

I got back onto the horse, by the way. No real problems after that but I did visit Urgent Care to be sure I hadn't knocked my noodle out of whack. I'm banged up and bruised but OK.

I have also found that as long as I find other activities to do - things that I don't normally do or new things - I have something to look forward to. Some different experience. One problem with depression I have found is the sheer BOREDOM from or because of depression can get overwhelming. That's why I'm trying different activities. The volunteer stuff is great because I don't have to pay a dime.

Well, here's to a great 2008. I hope everyone finds what they are looking for - particularly contentment and happiness.

Boo